The ancient Chinese believed that humans should live in harmony with the natural cycles of their environment. Because the cold and darkness of winter urges us to slow down. This is the time of year to reflect on health, replenish energy and conserve strength.
Tired and Drained? You’re Not Alone!
Lack of energy is one of the top five complaints that doctors hear in their offices during this time of year.
According to Oriental medicine, the cold months of winter are the perfect time to recharge your battery and generate vital energy—Qi— in order to live, look and feel your best.
Winter is ruled by the water element, which is associated with the kidneys, bladder and adrenal glands.
The kidneys are considered the source of all energy or “Qi” within the body. They store all of the reserve Qi in the body so that it can be used in times of stress and change—or to heal, prevent illness and age well.
During the winter months it is important to nurture and nourish our kidney Qi. It is the time where this energy can be most easily depleted. Our bodies are instinctively expressing the fundamental principles of winter—rest, reflection, conservation and storage.
The Nei Ching, an ancient Chinese classic, advises people to go to sleep early and rise late, after the sun’s rays have warmed the atmosphere a bit. This preserves your own yang Qi for the task of warming in the face of cold.
Eating warm hearty soups, whole grains and roasted nuts help warm the body’s core and stay nourished. Be sure to also get plenty of sleep.
6 Foods that Can Increase Vitality and Health
- Water – The kidneys are associated with the water element. Drink ample water at room temperature throughout the day.
- Kidney Shaped Foods – Black beans and kidney beans are excellent examples of kidney-shaped foods that nourish and benefit kidney Qi.
- Blue and Black Foods – The colors blue and black correspond to the water element of the kidneys and are thought to strengthen the water element. Include blueberries, blackberries, mulberry and black beans in your diet.
- Seeds – Flax, pumpkin, sunflower and black sesame seeds relate to fertility and growth which is governed by kidney Qi.
- Nuts – Walnuts and chestnuts have been found to be especially effective for increasing kidney Qi.
- Vegetables – Dark, leafy green vegetables are the best choice for kidney Qi. Other kidney Qi boosting veggies include asparagus, cucumbers and celery.
Seasonal acupuncture treatments in winter nurture and nourish kidney Qi, which can help your body thrive in times of stress, aid in healing, prevent illness and increase vitality.
Want more information or to schedule your seasonal tune-up? Give us a ring at (864) 370-1140!
Tell us: What do you do to stay when it starts getting cold?